Increased strength and stability of the top made for an easy transition to steel strings at the beginning of the next century. In the 1850’s, Martin developed the X-bracing system for guitar tops.
Yet, it is now a warehouse and a retail site. Therefore, he built one in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. By 1859, the need for a factory was evident. Originally, Martin guitars were made entirely by hand. Martin had relatives, and the land reminded him of his native Germany. Six years later the company relocated to Nazareth, Pennsylvania, where Mr. Then, he opened his first shop in New York City in 1833. Martin felt it would be easier to produce his guitars in America. Eventually, the court system sorted things out granting the rights to the cabinet makers’ guild.Īfter dealing with the restrictions of European guilds, C.F. However, both the cabinet makers’ guild and the violin makers’ guild, claimed rights to oversee the crafting of guitars. He learned to make guitars in Vienna, Austria, from Johann Georg Stauffer. After finishing his apprenticeship with Stauffer, C.F. Martin was from a family of German cabinet makers. Martin and Company appeared in 1833 in New York City, New York. The Story of Martin Guitars The BeginningĬ.F. Information given here, on finding serial numbers, can help with that process.
HOW TO READ MARTIN GUITAR SERIAL NUMBERS HOW TO
Knowing how to research serial numbers can aid in obtaining information about the age and authenticity of a guitar. Cheap acoustic guitars are easy to find but will be of far inferior quality. Also, Martin guitars are notorious for their beauty, unique sound, and for maintaining and increasing in value with age.Ī Martin guitar is an investment and something that you can enjoy for a lifetime. Martin and Company has been providing musicians with finely crafted instruments with unique details. The Martin name is synonymous with quality guitars.